Gavin Ochoa Explores Law Enforcement Through Police Department Internship
By Marshall Fiorita
For Communications Major Gavin Ochoa, learning what it takes to serve and protect has meant stepping directly into the world of campus law enforcement.
“We have a weekly class where we learn what it’s like to be a police officer,” Ochoa said. “Today’s topic was alcohol and drug use — learning what’s out there on the streets and how officers handle those situations.” Ochoa is interning with the Sonoma State University Police Department, where he participates in classroom sessions, campus events and real-world training scenarios that offer an inside look at the responsibilities of police officers.
In addition to classroom instruction, Ochoa and his peers host campus events to recruit students interested in law enforcement careers. Interns can also complete ride-alongs and shadow dispatchers or patrol officers, providing valuable hands-on experience. In addition, interns learn about how to communicate effectively with the outside public and within the department.
“I have a ride-along scheduled with the SSUPD and another one with Cotati PD,” he said. “You can also do one with CHP or other departments in the area. It’s a great way to learn from professionals.”
The internship includes practical simulations designed to test decision-making under pressure. “We did a safety training scenario where one suspect ran away and another pulled a fake gun,” Ochoa recalled. “You had to decide in the moment what to do, it really puts you in their shoes.”
While some interns use the program as a pathway to police work, Ochoa sees himself in a communications role within law enforcement.
“My goal is to become a dispatch officer or work on press releases for a department,” he said. “I’ve always been interested in law and criminal justice, but I decided to major in Communications because it gives me more flexibility.”
Ochoa is earning two internship units this semester. He works about 90 hours of work, and plans to continue next semester to reach his four units requirement.
He encourages other students to consider the experience, even if they’re not pursuing a career in policing.
“You learn a lot,” Ochoa said. “If you want to understand what officers do and get real-world experience, this is a great opportunity.”